Hike Wildcat Peak, CA

From Inspiration Point, head toward Nimitz gate. Once you pass through the gate, keep an eye out for Curran Trailhead; this is the trail you'll be starting on. After about 1/8 of a mile, you'll reach a junction with the Meadows Canyon Trail. Turn right onto this trail to continue the loop. This part of the trail offers some decent shade as you pass through the Eucalyptus grove.

After 1.5 miles, you'll reach a gate, which signifies the start of the Wildcat Gorge Trail. At 1.7 miles, the path will turn into a fire road as you enter the Tilden Nature Area -- no dogs. As you hike through the nature area, you'll pass several trail junctions with options for other hikes. For this specific hike, stay on Loop Road.

After 2.4 miles, you'll pass Jewel Lake and reach the junction for Wildcat Creek Trail. Head onto Wildcat Creek. After 1/10 of a mile, you'll reach Wildcat Peak Trail. Head onto this trail for the remaining mile and a half up to the peak.

On the return, head down the Wildcat Peak Trail to the junction, then turn left at the junction. When you reach the trail's end at Laurel Canyon Rd. (4.6 miles), follow the sign to Nimitz Way. At 4.9 miles, turn right onto Nimitz Way.